West Wind Sober Living

Outpatient Program

The Gorski Model of Relapse Prevention

The Gorski model of relapse prevention is a helpful tool when addressing relapse and relapse prevention plans with clients. The Gorski model proposes that people often have many early warning signs that precede a relapse. Many people in addiction are not able to recognize these early warning signs as they are automatic and unconscious. This model allows individuals to identify and address early warning signs of relapse through the following nine steps: stabilization, assessment, relapse education, identifying warning signs, managing warning signs, recovery planning, inventory training, family involvement, and follow up. Each step allows the client to develop more skills and self-awareness in order to help prevent relapse from occurring in the future.